URA CHANGE OF USE

A change of use may be required if you intend to change the use of a property e.g. from a shop to a restaurant. Depending on your business use and the type of property, you may need to apply for planning permission for Change of Use.

It is important to ensure that your intended use for a property can be allowed before signing a tenancy or purchase agreement of the property.

CLEARANCES REQUIRED FROM OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

In Singapore, the application for URA Change of Use not only requires planning permission from URA, but possibly also clearances from other Government agencies such as the Singapore Civil Defence Force, Land Transport Authority, National Environment Agency and Public Utilities Board, whichever relevant to your intended use.

CMM Food Consultancy Pte Ltd URA FAQs

1. When is URA Change of Use approval required?

URA Change of Use approval is needed when you want to change the use of the premises from its approved use to a new business activity. For example, if you plan to convert a retail shop into a food packaging facility or a restaurant, you must apply for a Change of Use before starting operations. This applies to private commercial properties, private shophouses, and other non-HDB properties.

2. How do I apply for a Change of Use with URA?

To apply for a Change of Use, submit an online application through the GoBusiness Licensing website or the URA SPACE portal. You will need to check whether the property falls under URA or HDB regulations. Some businesses, such as food safety operations or importing food, may require additional approvals from agencies like the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) or the Fire Safety and Shelter Department (FSSD).

3. What documents are required for the application?

You will need to submit:

A location plan showing the property details
A letter of consent from the property owner (if you are a prospective tenant)
A floor plan indicating the intended new use
Your business registration details

4. How long does it take to get URA approval?

The processing time for a Change of Use application is about 10 working days. However, if additional checks are required—such as those related to food license approvals, fire safety, or amenity issues—approval may take longer. Incomplete applications or missing documents will delay the process.

5. What are the fees for a Change of Use application?

The processing fee for a Change of Use application is $500. If you need to check at the URA website whether your business is allowed at a particular premises, an enquiry to URA costs $54.50 per enquiry. These fees are non-refundable.

6. What happens if I operate without URA approval?

Operating without planning permission is an offence under Section 12 of the Planning Act. Businesses found guilty of unauthorised development may face a fine of up to $200,000, with an extra $10,000 per day if the offence continues. This applies to all commercial buildings, HDB commercial premises, and private shophouse units.

7. Can a Change of Use approval be rejected?

Yes, the URA may reject an application if the intended use of the property does not fit within the current Use Class or if it could cause amenity issues like noise or congestion. To improve your chances, ensure your business falls under the list of allowable trades and meets all conditions for lodgment.

8. Is Change of Use approval permanent?

No, some approvals are temporary and must be renewed. Businesses may need to submit a renewal if they receive temporary permission instead of full approval. If a proposed use changes or if ownership of the business shifts, a new planning application may be required.

CONTACT US

Why not save the hassle of having to deal with multiple parties? At CMM Food Consultancy, we have close working relationships with officers from various Government agencies.